8 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Moving Company: Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, but choosing the right moving company can make all the difference. At
Sprint Mover, we understand how crucial it is to select a trusted moving partner that ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time. Asking the right questions before hiring a moving company will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure a smooth moving experience. Here are the top 8 questions to ask when hiring a moving company.
8 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Moving Company
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Before hiring any moving company, it’s essential to verify that they are both licensed and insured. A reputable moving company should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number for interstate moves, and local moving companies should comply with state regulations. Insurance is also crucial, as it protects your belongings during the move. Always ask for proof of insurance to ensure your items are covered in the event of loss or damage.
2. What Type of Estimates Do You Offer?
Moving companies typically offer different types of estimates, including binding, non-binding, and binding not-to-exceed estimates. A
binding estimate guarantees the cost of the move based on the inventory and services agreed upon, while a
non-binding estimate can change based on actual services rendered. A
binding not-to-exceed estimate caps your costs, ensuring you won’t pay more even if the move takes longer or weighs more. Be sure to clarify the type of estimate and request it in writing for peace of mind.
3. Do You Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?
Some moving companies offer full-service moves, including packing and unpacking your items, while others focus solely on transportation. If you need help packing fragile or valuable items, ask if the movers provide professional packing services and what materials they use. Similarly, find out if they offer unpacking services at your new location to save you time and hassle after the move.
4. What is Your Experience with My Type of Move?
Moving companies handle different types of moves—local, long-distance, and specialized moves like offices or apartments. It’s important to ask how much experience the company has with your specific type of move. For instance, if you’re moving from a high-rise building, make sure they have experience navigating elevators and tight spaces. If you’re moving long-distance, confirm that they are well-versed in logistics for cross-country moves.
5. Are There Any Additional Fees?
When reviewing your moving estimate, it’s crucial to ask about potential extra fees. Many companies charge additional fees for things like stairs, elevators, long carries (when the moving truck can’t park close to your home), or disassembling/reassembling furniture. Clarifying these charges upfront can help you avoid hidden costs. Be specific about your moving situation so the company can give you a comprehensive estimate that includes any extra services you may need.
6. What Is Your Cancellation or Rescheduling Policy?
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you may need to change your moving date or cancel altogether. Ask about the company’s policy for rescheduling or canceling a move. Many movers require notice within a specific timeframe to avoid penalties, so make sure you understand the terms and conditions to avoid unexpected fees. It’s also helpful to know what flexibility they offer in case your plans change last minute.
7. How Do You Handle Fragile or High-Value Items?
If you have fragile or high-value items like artwork, antiques, or electronics, ask how the movers plan to protect and transport them. A reputable moving company should have procedures in place to handle delicate items, such as using custom crates or specialized packing materials. Be sure to communicate any specific concerns about your belongings so the movers can take extra precautions during the move.
8. Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews?
A moving company’s reputation speaks volumes about their service. Ask the company for references from previous customers, or take some time to read online reviews. Reliable movers will have positive testimonials from satisfied customers, and any negative reviews should be rare or addressed professionally. Checking reviews and speaking to past clients will give you a better sense of the company’s reliability, professionalism, and customer service.
Bonus Tip: Why Choose Sprint Mover?
At
Sprint Mover, we pride ourselves on offering professional, reliable, and affordable moving services tailored to meet your needs. We are licensed and insured, with years of experience handling
local and long-distance moves, as well as packing and transporting fragile items with care. Our transparent pricing ensures no hidden fees, and we strive to make your moving experience as stress-free as possible.
When you’re ready to make your move, remember to ask these essential questions to ensure you’re hiring the right company. For expert moving services, give
Sprint Mover a call today and let us take the hassle out of your move!
